The points of issue
Borzoi/Knopf copyright page states 'FIRST EDITION' with a full number line descending to 1; Borzoi colophon. A true first carries the unclipped flap price. Russell's first novel (2012 Pulitzer finalist), which grew out of 'Ava Wrestles the Alligator' in St. Lucy's.
Is this the true first?
US Knopf hardcover (February 2011, published February 4) is the true first; the UK Chatto & Windus edition is a separate first-thus.
Telling it from reprints & book-club editions
Book-club editions are lighter in weight and omit the number line and the flap price.
Frequently asked questions
Is my copy of Swamplandia! a first edition?
Look for these first-edition points: Borzoi/Knopf copyright page states 'FIRST EDITION' with a full number line descending to 1; Borzoi colophon. A true first carries the unclipped flap price. Russell's first novel (2012 Pulitzer finalist), which grew out of 'Ava Wrestles the Alligator' in St. Lucy's.
How do I tell the first printing from a later one?
Check the copyright page for the publisher's first-printing convention and confirm the points above. US Knopf hardcover (February 2011, published February 4) is the true first; the UK Chatto & Windus edition is a separate first-thus.
Is the book-club edition the same as the first?
Book-club editions are lighter in weight and omit the number line and the flap price.
I have a first edition of Swamplandia! — what should I do?
If you're clearing books, New Mexico Literacy Project offers free pickup in Albuquerque, any condition, and makes sure collectible copies aren't lost. To sell, see the author's collecting guide. Either way, nothing valuable ends up in a landfill.